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Lisa Ann (McKniff) Ellis, 59, passed away peacefully with family at her side on June 28, 2025, due to complications from cancer treatment.
Born in Darby, PA. and raised in Delaware County, Lisa was a graduate of Interboro High School in 1983 then continued her education at Neuman University. She found an affinity for claims adjustment work with healthcare insurance companies, dedicating much of her career to Amerihealth Caritas, where she was recognized for her commitment and professionalism.
Lisa was a passionate Philadelphia Flyers fan and enjoyed attending games with Tom Ellis, her husband of 35 years. Before modern technology, she was often seen with headphones and a portable radio ensuring she didn’t miss a game, this included at dinner and even at church during a wedding. She was an avid fan of musicians Luke Bryan and Jimmy Buffett, frequently found singing their tunes out loud.
Family was central to Lisa’s life. She married her high school sweetheart, Tom, and together they spent much of their time planning, hosting or attending events and functions with family. She cherished weekend trips with her parents and grandparents and was always available for support and guidance as needed when called or sent texts from her extended family.
In recent years, she and Tom spent many of their free hours with their great nephew, Robert Smith. Sharing their love of hockey, they cheered him on through many seasons. Lisa’s drive to do for others was shared with the community through hours of volunteering at the Loaves and Fishes food pantry where she gave and received friendship, particularly after the passing of her husband. Her love extended to her pets, including her beloved dogs Sheldon and Tucker, among others over the years.
Lisa leaves behind her mother, Margaret McKniff; her brother’s children, Bryan McKniff (Mary), Matt McKniff (Barbara), and Shelby Brumfield (Josh); as well as her sister-in-law, Liz McKniff (Jimmy). Lisa’s presence will be missed by her extended family, that includes many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews, who fondly remember the large family gatherings she hosted.
Lisa is predeceased by her husband, Tom Ellis, her father, James A. McKniff, her brother, James J. McKniff, and her maternal grandparents, Joe and Bernice Anderson.
Lisa’s family and friends will remember her warmth, love for family, and her spirited personality. Her legacy of love and strength will remain in the hearts of those she touched.
Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation 2:30-3:30 PM Tuesday, July 15, 2025 and to her Funeral Service 3:30 PM at the Knoetgen-Donohue Funeral Home, 746 Kedron Avenue, Morton, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Flyers Charities Carnival, an event that works to support local families impacted by cancer and grow the game of hockey to new and diverse audiences, online at https://www.nhl.com/flyers/community/flyers-charities/donate/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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